Ellie Goldstein is an 18-year-old model who rose to fame after she became the first model with Down syndrome to be featured in a beauty campaign for Gucci.
She was hired by Gucci as a result of Instagram scouting projects and editorial centers.
She spoke to Vogue about her experience as a model with a disability and representation in the media.
WHAT DID ELLIE GOLDSTEIN SAY?
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GROWING UP WITH DOWN SYNDROME
“I haven’t had any bad experiences having Down’s syndrome. I think it’s because of my personality. The only challenge I have faced was maybe people signing to me and talking to my mum instead of me, until realising that I can communicate and that I am just like them, maybe just slower at learning some things.”
“[I overcame it] by being myself. Once people realise I can talk and have a great character, they are different towards me and they smile. There needs to be more positivity out there and people should give us a chance and not be so ignorant.”
BECOMING A MODEL
“I got into [it] when I was 15 years old. My mum found out about Zebedee Management and we decided to join them. The best part of modelling is showing myself off to everyone. I love to be in front of the camera and show how professional I am.”
REPRESENTATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
“Representation is very important to me — let the world see that anyone can model and act with a disability.”
BEING FEATURED IN A GUCCI CAMPAIGN
“It feels so amazing and fabulous to be part of the Gucci Beauty campaign. I feel so proud of myself, especially to have been chosen for this. When I look at the images, I feel happy with myself, and all the likes and comments on social media across the world have been overwhelming.”
HOPING FOR A BETTER FUTURE
“My hope as a model is to become famous one day. My dream job [is to] be on the front cover of Vogue and work for other big brands. My hopes and dreams are to show the world who I am and what I can achieve.”
